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Melbourne-based global architecture and design firm Buchan has appointed Laraine Sperling as its new chief executive officer, making her the first woman to lead the practice in its 135-year history.
Sperling, who joined Buchan in 2021 as chief strategy officer, will oversee the firm's five studios across Australia and New Zealand.
She is credited with driving Buchan's transition from a regionally managed business to a sector-focused operating model and leading a comprehensive brand refresh.
The appointment comes as the firm rides a wave of high-profile project wins, including the adaptive reuse of the Melbourne Walk precinct for IHG's first Australian dual-branded hotels and the Australia Pavilion at World Expo 2025 Osaka, which won the Louise Cox Award for Public Architecture at the 2026 AIA International Chapter Architecture Awards.
"As one of the custodians of the Buchan brand, I am honoured by this appointment," says Sperling.
"I am excited to be leading the talented Buchan team into the next stage of our growth, ensuring that we continue to build our design culture while offering sound commercial outcomes for our clients.
"Their vision and the success of their projects comes first."
Sperling brings to the role more than two decades of international experience spanning architecture, design and strategy across markets in Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Before joining Buchan, she held senior roles at global firms including Woods Bagot and Hassell.
Buchan director and chair Phil Schoutrop describes Sperling as highly respected and engaged across the industry in multiple regions earning her the confidence of Buchan's clients, staff and strategic partners.
"The executive leadership team is delighted Laraine has accepted this pivotal role," says Schoutrop.
“Her global career, strategic approach and focus on cultural and generational change provide a strong foundation for leading the next chapter in Buchan's evolution."
The firm notes that Sperling's experience gives her a "deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities" in an industry under sustained pressure from shifting market conditions.
“The industry is going through an era of profound change, defined by technological advances, climate imperatives and rising construction costs," says Sperling.
"Buchan remains focused on identifying new areas of opportunity and empowering a new generation within the practice to lead.
"My priorities are to support our team to pursue design excellence while ensuring the firm remains financially strong and resilient."
Buchan, which operates major studios in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Auckland, has an extensive portfolio of retail, commercial and mixed-use projects.
The firm can trace its roots back to about 1890 when an architectural practice was established in Geelong by the Laird and Buchan families to be originally known as Buchan, Laird & Buchan.
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